About the Owner
Bridger K9’s owner and trainer brings a strong foundation in companion-dog behavior, advanced working-dog training, and applied canine learning science, strengthened by hands-on experience working with rescue dogs across the Middle East and Europe and serving as a K9 handler overseas. This diverse background supports a structured, professional, and evidence-based approach to every training program.
Professional education and certifications reflect extensive experience across both behavior consulting and working-dog disciplines. Credentials include:
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Certified as a Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC-DBC) and Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT), demonstrating mastery in canine behavior assessment, learning theory, applied behavior modification, and ethical training practices. IAABC is internationally recognized for maintaining some of the highest professional and educational standards in the industry.
University of Washington – Certification in Applied Animal Behavior
Certified in Applied Animal Behavior through the University of Washington, a program known for its scientific rigor and emphasis on evidence-based behavioral assessment and modification. This education strengthens expertise in learning theory, ethology, functional assessment, welfare considerations, and the development of effective, humane training plans tailored to each dog.
TCD Canine Training Center – Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland
Earned a Certificate of Achievement from one of the nation’s most respected military and government working-dog training facilities at Lackland Air Force Base. This program is renowned for producing elite canine teams specializing in detection, obedience, environmental exposure, and operational reliability. Training emphasizes precision, structure, clarity, and consistent performance in real-world conditions.
North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA)
Certified through a national organization dedicated to the certification and advancement of police and detection canine teams. NAPWDA standards require rigorous testing in obedience, odor recognition, tracking, and scenario-based deployments, demonstrating advanced reliability and discipline.
High Desert Police Canine Association (HDPCA)
Certified through a respected working-dog association focused on tactical performance, environmental stability, and operational readiness. HDPCA certifications reflect proficiency in handling dogs under high distraction and demanding conditions.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – Third Party Canine Program (3PK9)
Certified through one of the nation’s most stringent detection-dog evaluation frameworks, emphasizing odor recognition, operational reliability, consistency under pressure, and handler proficiency.
United Police Work Dog Association (UPWDA)
Certified through a nationally recognized working-dog organization specializing in detection, tracking, patrol, and obedience. UPWDA certifications highlight competency in real-world search and detection disciplines.
National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) – Approved Vocational Instructor
Recognized by one of the longest-standing professional dog-training organization in the United States, this approval reflects demonstrated excellence in instructional skill, curriculum development, dog training, and ethical training practices. NADOI approval requires rigorous evaluation of knowledge, teaching ability, training proficiency, and professional standards.
Pro Pet Hero – Pet First Aid & CPR Instructor
Certified as an instructor in pet CPR and first aid, reinforcing a priority on safety, preparedness, and responsible handling across all training programs.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Certified as an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and AKC Fetch Judge, supporting responsible dog ownership and evaluating dogs through respected, standardized manners and skill benchmarks.
Collectively, these certifications represent a broad and advanced foundation in canine behavior analysis, structured obedience, detection work, environmental management, and real-world training standards. This diverse background supports a training philosophy centered on communication, clarity, confidence-building, and humane, evidence-supported techniques.